believe continues to build its apprenticeship programme

A successful apprenticeship programme by one of the regions largest housing associations is set to grow by more than a quarter.

Aspiring bricklayers and horticultural estates apprentices are among some of the positions being sought by believe housing as the County Durham-based organisation looks to expand its workforce. The housing association, which provides affordable homes for more than 18,000 families across the region, already has 18 apprentices on its books and has begun the search for a further six.

The opportunities include a new bricklaying apprenticeship alongside horticultural, and business admin roles. Applications are open for all roles now, with a deadline of Sunday, 15 September.

With Level 2 and Level 3 craft and administrative apprenticeships available, the successful applicants will gain industry recognised qualifications as well as hands on experience.

Joinery apprentice at believe housing, Eleanor Hailes, said: “I took joinery at school and really enjoyed it, so I was thrilled when the opportunity to apply for an apprenticeship at believe housing came up. I knew how good the company was and was over-the-moon when I got the job.”

Lewis King joined believe housing as an apprentice straight from school and has now secured a permanent role. “I didn’t want to spend any more time in full time education, so when I saw the chance to earn money while I was still learning it seemed like a great opportunity.” Lewis said.

“I really enjoy my job, I get to go out quite a bit to sites where we’re building new houses and see all sorts of things. I definitely made the right choice.”

The 530 strong team at believe housing includes a number of former apprentices who have now secured permanent jobs in roles as varied as community investment, joinery and new-build project development.

Chief Executive of believe housing, Bill Fullen, said: “Investing in neighbourhoods is not just about building new homes, our whole ethos is about growing communities by providing jobs and training too.

“Many of our existing apprentices are already excelling in their careers with us, with some already taking on managerial roles. I am delighted we are able to expand the apprenticeship programme to cover different areas of the business and I very much look forward to welcoming the next cohort of apprentices.”

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